Explore the map of Punjab, a state in northern India, covers an area of 50,362 square kilometres and is home to approximately 28 million people. Known as the "Granary of India," Punjab is a leading agricultural state, producing significant quantities of wheat and rice. The state capital, Chandigarh, serves as a joint capital with neighbouring Haryana. Major cities include Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Jalandhar. Punjab boasts a high literacy rate of around 76%, and its economy is bolstered by agriculture, manufacturing, and textiles. The Golden Temple in Amritsar, a major religious and tourist site, reflects Punjab's rich cultural heritage.
Explore the Punjab district map showing the 23 districts, district headquarters and capital of Punjab state in India.
List of districts of Punjab
S.N.
Districts
Code
Headquarters
Population (2011)
Density (/km²)
Area (km²)
1
Amritsar
AM
Amritsar
2,490,891
932
2,647
2
Barnala
BNL
Barnala
596,294
419
1,410
3
Bathinda
BA
Bathinda
1,388,859
414
3,385
4
Faridkot
FR
Faridkot
618,008
424
1,469
5
Fatehgarh Sahib
FT
Fatehgarh Sahib
599,814
508
1,180
6
Firozpur
FI
Firozpur
965,337
182
2,190
7
Fazilka
FA
Fazilka
1,180,483
379
3,113
8
Gurdaspur
GU
Gurdaspur
2,299,026
649
2,635
9
Hoshiarpur
HO
Hoshiarpur
1,582,793
466
3,365
10
Jalandhar
JA
Jalandhar
2,181,753
831
2,632
11
Kapurthala
KA
Kapurthala
817,668
501
1,632
12
Ludhiana
LU
Ludhiana
3,487,882
975
3,767
13
Malerkotla
ML
Malerkotla
452,016
540
837
14
Mansa
MA
Mansa
768,808
350
2,171
15
Moga
MO
Moga
992,289
444
2,216
16
Sri Muktsar Sahib
MU
Sri Muktsar Sahib
902,702
348
2,615
17
Pathankot
PA
Pathankot
676,598
728
929
18
Patiala
PA
Patiala
1,892,282
596
3,218
19
Rupnagar
RU
Rupnagar
683,349
488
1,369
20
Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar
SAS
Mohali
986,147
830
1,093
21
Sangrur
SA
Sangrur
1,203,153
422
2,848
22
Shahid Bhagat Singh Nagar
NS
Nawanshahr
614,362
478
1,267
23
Tarn Taran
TT
Tarn Taran Sahib
1,120,070
464
2,449
Districts of Punjab
Punjab, a state in northern India, is divided into 23 districts, each contributing uniquely to its cultural, economic, and social fabric. The administrative structure ensures efficient governance and development across the region, with each district playing a significant role.
Ludhiana
Ludhiana is the most populous district in Punjab, with over 3.5 million residents. Known as the "Manchester of India," it is a major industrial hub, particularly in textiles and manufacturing. The district is also renowned for its hosiery industry, making significant contributions to India's export sector.
Amritsar
Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple, is both a religious and cultural epicentre. With a population of around 2.5 million, it attracts millions of visitors annually, contributing substantially to tourism. The district is also a key agricultural area, producing wheat, rice, and vegetables.
Chandigarh
Chandigarh serves as the capital for both Punjab and Haryana. Known for its modern architecture and urban planning by Le Corbusier, it has a population of approximately 1 million. Chandigarh is a centre for administration, education, and health services, with several prestigious institutions and hospitals.
Jalandhar
Jalandhar, with a population of about 2.2 million, is famous for its sports goods industry. The district's products are exported worldwide, earning it a reputation as a global manufacturing hub for sports equipment. Jalandhar is also known for its educational institutions and vibrant cultural scene.
Patiala
Patiala, home to around 2 million people, is rich in cultural heritage. Known for its traditional architecture, the district houses the Qila Mubarak complex and numerous other historical sites. Patiala is also a major educational centre, with institutions like Punjabi University and Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology.
Bathinda
Bathinda, with a population of approximately 1.4 million, is an important agricultural and industrial district. It is home to the Guru Nanak Dev Thermal Plant and the Bathinda Refinery, which play crucial roles in the state’s energy sector. The district also has a significant cotton industry.
Firozpur
Located on the Indo-Pakistan border, Firozpur is historically significant and serves as a major cantonment area. With a population of around 1 million, the district is also known for its rich agricultural produce, particularly wheat and rice.
Gurdaspur
Gurdaspur, with a population of about 1.6 million, is an agriculturally prosperous district. It is known for its production of cereals, pulses, and sugarcane. The district also has historical significance, with sites like the Gurdwara Sri Darbar Sahib in Kartarpur.
Hoshiarpur
Hoshiarpur, home to about 1.5 million residents, is renowned for its educational institutions and diverse culture. The district is a major producer of kinnow (a type of citrus fruit) and has a growing IT sector.
Moga
Moga, with a population of approximately 1.1 million, is primarily agricultural. It is known for its dairy industry and is often referred to as the "Milk Capital of Punjab." The district's lush fields produce significant quantities of wheat, rice, and sugarcane.
Pathankot
Pathankot, with around 700,000 residents, serves as a gateway to the neighbouring state of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. It is an important military base and a hub for transportation and logistics.
Sangrur
Sangrur, home to about 1.6 million people, is known for its agricultural productivity and historical significance. The district produces wheat, rice, and cotton and is home to the historically significant Banasar Bagh.
Punjab
Punjab, a state in northern India, spans 50,362 square kilometres and is home to approximately 28 million people. Known as the "Granary of India," Punjab is a pivotal agricultural state, contributing significantly to the country’s grain supply, particularly wheat and rice. The state’s fertile plains, nourished by the five rivers—Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum—make it an agricultural powerhouse.
The capital city, Chandigarh, serves as a shared capital with Haryana and is renowned for its urban planning and architecture, designed by the famous architect Le Corbusier. Punjab's major cities include Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Jalandhar, each playing a crucial role in the state's economy and cultural landscape. Ludhiana is the industrial hub, known for its textile and manufacturing industries, while Amritsar houses the Golden Temple, a significant religious and tourist site attracting millions of visitors annually.
Punjab boasts a literacy rate of around 76%, reflecting the state's emphasis on education. Institutions like Panjab University in Chandigarh and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar are renowned for their academic excellence. The state also has a robust healthcare system, with numerous hospitals and health centres providing quality medical services to its residents.
The economy of Punjab is diverse, with agriculture, manufacturing, and services sectors contributing significantly. The state’s agricultural sector is highly mechanised, with a well-developed infrastructure for irrigation, ensuring high productivity. Besides agriculture, Punjab has a strong industrial base, with industries ranging from textiles and garments to machinery and sports goods.
Culturally, Punjab is vibrant and dynamic, known for its rich traditions, music, dance, and festivals. Bhangra and Gidda, traditional dance forms, are popular worldwide, symbolising the state’s joyous spirit. The festivals of Baisakhi, Lohri, and Diwali are celebrated with great fervour, showcasing the cultural richness and communal harmony of the region.
History
Punjab, a state in northern India, has a rich and diverse history that spans several millennia. The name "Punjab" is derived from the Persian words 'panj' (five) and 'ab' (water), referring to the land of five rivers: Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum.
Ancient Period
Punjab's history dates back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, which flourished around 2500 BCE in regions like Harappa, now in modern-day Pakistan. This civilisation is noted for its advanced urban planning, architecture, and social organisation. The Vedic period followed, marking the arrival of the Indo-Aryans, who composed the early Vedic scriptures in this region.
Medieval Period
The medieval history of Punjab is marked by a succession of empires and invasions. The region was part of the Maurya Empire under Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, and later the Gupta Empire. During the medieval period, Punjab saw invasions by the Huns, Turks, and Afghans, including the establishment of the Ghaznavid Empire in the 11th century. The Delhi Sultanate and the Mughal Empire subsequently controlled the region, with Punjab becoming a significant administrative and cultural centre.
Sikh Empire
The rise of Sikhism in the 15th century was a pivotal development in Punjab's history. Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, was born in 1469 in Talwandi (now Nankana Sahib, Pakistan). The Sikh Gurus played a crucial role in shaping the social and spiritual landscape of the region. In the 18th century, Maharaja Ranjit Singh established the Sikh Empire, which at its zenith covered parts of modern-day India and Pakistan. The empire was known for its secular administration, military prowess, and cultural achievements.
British Period
Punjab came under British control after the Anglo-Sikh Wars, with the annexation of the Sikh Empire in 1849. The British Raj brought significant changes, including the development of infrastructure like railways and canals. However, it also saw the rise of nationalist movements and the struggle for independence. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre in Amritsar in 1919 was a tragic and pivotal event in the Indian independence movement.
Partition and Modern Era
The partition of India in 1947 led to the division of Punjab between India and Pakistan, resulting in massive displacement and communal violence. East Punjab became part of India, while West Punjab went to Pakistan. The partition had a profound impact on the region's demographic and social fabric. In 1966, the state of Punjab was further divided to create Haryana and Himachal Pradesh, based on linguistic lines.
Post-Independence
Since independence, Punjab has been a significant contributor to India's agricultural sector, especially after the Green Revolution in the 1960s and 70s. This revolution transformed Punjab into the "Granary of India," making it a leading state in wheat and rice production. The state has also developed industrially and educationally, with significant urban centres like Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Chandigarh driving economic growth.
Geography
Punjab, located in the northwestern part of India, is characterised by its fertile plains and significant river systems. The state covers an area of 50,362 square kilometres and shares its borders with Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, and the international border with Pakistan.
Topography and Landforms
Punjab's topography is predominantly flat, making it ideal for agriculture. The land slopes gently from the northeast to the southwest, with the Shivalik Hills marking the state's northern boundary. The plains are divided into two distinct regions: the Malwa region in the south and the Majha and Doaba regions in the north. Malwa is known for its black soil, conducive to cotton cultivation, while Majha and Doaba are famed for their alluvial soil, supporting extensive wheat and rice farming.
Rivers
The state's name, Punjab, meaning "Land of Five Rivers," is derived from the five major rivers that flow through it: Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, and Jhelum. However, after the partition of India in 1947, only Sutlej, Beas, and Ravi remain within Indian Punjab. These rivers play a crucial role in irrigation, supporting Punjab's reputation as the "Granary of India." The Bhakra Nangal Dam on the Sutlej River is one of the world's highest gravity dams and a major source of irrigation and hydroelectric power.
Climate
Punjab experiences a subtropical climate, with hot summers, cold winters, and a monsoon season. Summer temperatures can soar above 40°C, while winter temperatures often drop below 5°C. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings the majority of the state's annual rainfall, which averages between 500 and 1000 millimetres. This seasonal rainfall is vital for agriculture, although the state also relies heavily on irrigation.
Soil and Agriculture
The soil in Punjab is primarily alluvial, brought down by the rivers, making it extremely fertile. This rich soil, combined with an extensive irrigation network, supports the cultivation of various crops. Punjab is a leading producer of wheat, rice, maize, barley, and cotton. The state contributes significantly to India's food grain production, earning it the title "Breadbasket of India."
Flora and Fauna
Punjab's flora includes a variety of deciduous trees such as shisham (Indian rosewood), kikar (acacia), and eucalyptus. The state has several forests, mainly in the Shivalik foothills and along the river banks, although forest cover is limited. The fauna includes species like the blackbuck, nilgai (blue bull), wild boar, and various migratory birds, especially in the Harike Wetland, a Ramsar site.
Urban Centres and Infrastructure
Punjab's major cities include Chandigarh, Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Patiala. Chandigarh, a Union Territory and the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, is known for its modern architecture and urban planning by Le Corbusier. Ludhiana is an industrial hub, Amritsar is a cultural and religious centre housing the Golden Temple, and Jalandhar and Patiala are significant for their educational institutions and historical sites.
Natural Resources and Economy
Apart from its agricultural wealth, Punjab has modest mineral resources, including limestone, gypsum, and coal. The state's economy is bolstered by its robust agricultural sector, manufacturing, especially textiles and hosiery in Ludhiana, and a growing services sector. The extensive road and rail network facilitates trade and connectivity, while modern infrastructure supports industrial growth.
Demographics
Punjab, a state in northern India, is home to a population of approximately 28 million people, according to the 2011 Census. The state covers an area of 50,362 square kilometres, making it one of the most densely populated states in India. Punjab's demographic profile is characterised by its diverse cultural heritage, vibrant communities, and significant contributions to India's socio-economic fabric.
Population Distribution
Punjab's population density stands at around 550 people per square kilometre. The urban population constitutes about 37% of the total, with major cities like Ludhiana, Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Chandigarh serving as key urban centres. Ludhiana, the largest city, is an industrial hub, while Amritsar is renowned for the Golden Temple, attracting millions of visitors annually. Chandigarh, the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, is known for its modern architecture and urban planning.
Ethnic Groups and Languages
The population of Punjab is predominantly Punjabi, with Sikhs making up around 58% and Hindus about 38%. Other communities include Muslims, Christians, and Jains. Punjabi is the official language of the state, spoken by the vast majority of the population. The Gurmukhi script is used for writing Punjabi. Hindi and English are also widely understood and used for administrative and educational purposes.
Religion
Punjab is the heartland of Sikhism, a religion founded in the 15th century by Guru Nanak Dev. The state is home to several significant Sikh shrines, including the Harmandir Sahib (Golden Temple) in Amritsar, which is the most important pilgrimage site for Sikhs. Hinduism is the second-largest religion in the state, with numerous temples and religious festivals celebrated with fervour. The state also has small communities of Muslims, Christians, and Jains, reflecting its religious diversity.
Literacy and Education
The literacy rate in Punjab is approximately 76%, higher than the national average. Male literacy stands at around 81%, while female literacy is about 71%. The state has a robust educational infrastructure, with institutions like Panjab University in Chandigarh, Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar, and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Ropar playing pivotal roles in higher education. Punjab also has numerous schools and vocational training centres that contribute to its high literacy rates.
Economic Demographics
Punjab's economy is primarily agrarian, with around 65% of the population engaged in agriculture. The state is a leading producer of wheat and rice, contributing significantly to India's food grain production. In addition to agriculture, Punjab has a strong industrial base, particularly in textiles, hosiery, machinery, and sports goods manufacturing. The service sector, including trade, transport, and finance, also plays a crucial role in the state's economy.
Gender Ratio
The sex ratio in Punjab is 895 females per 1,000 males, which is lower than the national average. Efforts are ongoing to address gender disparities, particularly in areas of education and healthcare, to improve the status of women in the state.
Healthcare and Life Expectancy
Punjab has a well-developed healthcare system, with numerous hospitals, clinics, and health centres providing quality medical services. The state government has implemented various health programmes to improve public health outcomes. The life expectancy in Punjab is around 72 years, reflecting the state's advancements in healthcare and living standards.
Urbanisation and Migration
Punjab has experienced significant urbanisation, driven by migration from rural areas to cities in search of better employment opportunities and living conditions. This migration has led to the expansion of infrastructure and services to accommodate the growing urban population. Cities like Ludhiana, Amritsar, and Chandigarh continue to grow, contributing to the state's economic development.
